How to Configure WhatsApp Settings in openSIS
Overview
The WhatsApp Settings section in openSIS allows institutions to configure WhatsApp communication services for sending messages directly through supported communication gateways.
Once configured, WhatsApp communication may be used for:
- Notifications
- Announcements
- Alerts and reminders
- Parent communication
- Administrative messaging
openSIS supports WhatsApp integration through providers such as:
- Twilio Gateway
Accessing WhatsApp Settings
To access WhatsApp configuration:
Settings > School Settings > Default Communication SettingsOpen the:
WhatsApp tab
The WhatsApp settings screen allows administrators to configure communication provider credentials and verified sender information.
WhatsApp Configuration Fields
Provider
Defines the communication provider used for WhatsApp integration.
Example:
- Twilio Gateway
The selected provider determines the required authentication details.
Account SID
The Account SID is the unique account identifier provided by the communication service provider.
This credential is required for gateway authentication.
Auth Token
The Auth Token is the secure authentication key associated with the provider account.
This token authorizes communication requests sent from openSIS.
Administrators should keep this value secure and confidential.
WhatsApp From Number
The WhatsApp sender number used for communication.
This number must typically be:
- Registered
- Approved
- Verified
through the communication provider.
Example:
+14155238886
Test Number
The Test Number field is used to verify WhatsApp communication during setup.
This helps administrators confirm:
- Correct credentials
- Successful gateway integration
- Message delivery functionality
before enabling communication workflows institution wide.
Configuring WhatsApp Settings
To configure WhatsApp communication:
- Navigate to:
Settings > School Settings > Default Communication Settings - Open the:
WhatsApp tab - Select the communication provider.
- Enter:
- Account SID
- Auth Token
- WhatsApp From Number
- Test Number
- Click Update
The WhatsApp gateway configuration will now be saved.
Verifying WhatsApp Configuration
After configuration:
- Send a test message if supported
- Verify message delivery to the test number
- Confirm that the sender number is verified correctly
If communication fails, review:
- Provider credentials
- Sender number approval
- Account permissions
- Provider setup requirements
Twilio WhatsApp Support
Twilio supports both:
- SMS communication
- WhatsApp communication
Institutions using Twilio may configure separate sender numbers for:
- SMS
depending on provider setup and verification requirements.
Security Recommendations
Communication credentials should only be accessible to authorized administrators.
Avoid:
- Sharing Auth Tokens publicly
- Using unverified sender numbers
- Storing credentials insecurely
Common WhatsApp Use Cases in openSIS
Institutions may use WhatsApp communication for:
- Parent alerts
- Student notifications
- Attendance communication
- Event reminders
- Emergency notices
- Administrative announcements
Best Practices
- Use verified WhatsApp sender numbers only.
- Test communication before production use.
- Keep gateway credentials secure.
- Review provider messaging limitations carefully.
- Validate communication workflows periodically.
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